KTT Ash Gray vs. Outemu Milk Blue
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Outemu Milk Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Ash Gray, a tactile switch, and the Outemu Milk Blue, a clicky switch, stand out as reliable options. The Ash Gray offers a balanced tactile response that is both satisfying and subtle, making typing a pleasure without being overly loud or intrusive. In contrast, the Milk Blue switch is known for its distinct clicky feedback, providing a satisfying audible sound with each keystroke. If you value a light touch and a crisp actuation, the Ash Gray may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more pronounced and clicky feedback while typing, the Milk Blue may be the way to go. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Ash Gray and the Outemu Milk Blue, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that is clear and resonant. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. However, despite both switches using the same material for their top housing, the key difference lies in their bottom housing material.
The Ash Gray utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This leads to a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. On the other hand, the Milk Blue also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a deeper sound profile. Despite the differences in their bottom housings, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with distinct sound profiles.
When considering the impact of housing materials on switch performance, it is important to note that the qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Ash Gray and the Milk Blue may have different bottom housings, the overall typing experience and sound profile of both switches are likely to be similar due to their shared use of polycarbonate for the top housing.
Weight
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch is lighter in terms of actuation force compared to the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch. The Ash Gray requires 38 grams to actuate, while the Milk Blue needs 50 grams. However, the Milk Blue does not have a specified bottom out force, whereas the Ash Gray has a bottom out force of 53 grams. This means that the Ash Gray provides a medium-light typing experience, while the Milk Blue's bottom out force remains unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing feel, the Ash Gray would be the better option, as it requires less force to actuate. On the other hand, for those who enjoy a more substantial push feel, the Milk Blue might be preferred if it has a heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch is 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Milk Blue clicky switch has a longer travel distance compared to the Ash Gray tactile switch. The difference may seem minimal, but it can make a noticeable impact on the typing experience. The Ash Gray switch with its shorter travel distance might be preferred by those looking for a more responsive feel, especially gamers who value faster response times. On the other hand, the Milk Blue switch with its longer travel distance may be favored by those who prefer a more substantial key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Ash Gray has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ash Gray for $2.55.
The Outemu Milk Blue comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for various typing environments, whether at home or in the office. On the other hand, information about the sound profile of the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch is unavailable. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Ash Gray switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate the keys. This light actuation force can help reduce finger fatigue during long typing sessions, providing a comfortable and responsive typing experience. The switch also offers a mild typing sensation, making it approachable for most users. Unfortunately, details about the tactile feel of the Milk Blue switch are not provided.
Overall, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch seems to offer a balanced blend of tactile feedback, sound, and typing comfort, making it a versatile option for a wide range of users. While the information on the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch is limited, based on the available details, it is clear that both switches may provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. However, for those looking for a tactile switch with a light touch and crisp actuation, the Ash Gray switch may be the preferred choice.
Conclusion
In a nutshell, when choosing between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, consider the following guidelines. Opt for the Ash Gray if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force with a tactile response that is both substantial and unobtrusive. This switch provides a delightful blend of tactile feedback without being overwhelming. On the other hand, select the Milk Blue if you are looking for a clicky switch with a unique typing experience. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics, so ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preference in terms of bottom out force, tactile response, sound, and feel. Make sure to test out both switches if possible to determine which one suits your typing style best.
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